The magnificent Oxalys ensemble, led by Toon Fret at the flute, puts forward an absolute discovery: for the first time in recording history here are the complete quartets with flute by Ferdinand Ries, this great contemporary of Beethoven. He had been his pupil and was long pushed into oblivion by the shadow of his master. One of the most famous musicians of his time, Ries combines classical contours with romantic elements in these works, in an elegant and spiritual fashion which can be considered his trademark. Supporting the volubile parts for the flute, he wrote dense and inventive scores for the strings. A true declaration of love for chamber music!